Timeline - How We Got Here

1996

Bedros Bedrosian & Mark Bivens embark on their entrepreneurial vision of building a software Company that provides real estate brokerages and their agents the tools they need to successfully service their customers over the Internet. Both graduates of Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois and just 24 years of age, they have been fascinated with the Internet since completing their electrical engineering degrees in 1993. In 1995, just one year prior to their launch, they begin building their business plan.

In early 1996, they incorporate BIRDVIEW and begin their effort to build a premier Company in the industry. Like many other young startups, the Company literally begins in the basement of Bedros' parents home in Naperville, Illinois with an investment of just $5000, $2500 in computer assets and $2500 of cash.

BIRDVIEW launches its OFFICESITE ™ & AGENTSITE ™ Internet platforms soon after incorporating. Initial reaction is mixed at best. Most agents and brokerages view the Internet with much skepticism. The two co-founders are not discouraged, however. They persist, despite the resistance, believing that consumer adoption of the Internet is just around the corner. Their efforts pay off. They sign on two customers who share their vision. ERA American Brokers in Prospect Heights, Illinois and Century 21 CPH Partners in Rolling Meadows, Illinois (To this day, ERA American Brokers continues to be a BIRDVIEW client while Century 21 CPH partners remained a client until it was acquired by Coldwell Banker NRT).

1997 - 1999

Bedros & Mark continue to gain momentum in 1997 as more and more Chicago area brokerages sign on to use their products. They attend numerous trade shows, work with local associations and muster local recognition for their innovative solutions.

Through continued interaction with their clients and a better understanding of their needs, BIRDVIEW Technologies develops SHARENET ™, the first of its kind application that allows real estate brokerages to co-market listings on each others web sites. The idea is a hit with both customers and consumers alike and accelerates BIRDVIEW’s penetration into the Chicago market.

By late 1999, they have attained approximately 20% penetration in the Chicago market and become the largest provider in the metro area. Within the Century 21 System, the Company holds a remarkable 80% market share.

Their early success paves their way. By the end of 1999, BIRDVIEW gains a substantial investment opening the door to a nationwide launch. New innovations including MLSBooster ™, an early MLS approved precursor to VOW & IDX, take the market by storm and continue the realization of Bedros & Mark’s vision.